How do we know that Jesus is our Shepherd?

In John 10:14-15, Jesus explicitly states, 'I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.' This intimate knowledge highlights the relationship between Christ and His followers, affirming that He sees us as belonging to Him. Furthermore, we are His sheep by divine gift; the Father has given us to Jesus, securing our place in His fold. His sacrificial death is evidence of His commitment to care for us, providing assurance that we are never lost or without His protective guidance.